School Bulletin: Coyote Ridge educator named Teacher of the Year

Courtesy of John SmithCoyote Ridge Elementary School teacher Sheri Balakian was named Teacher of the Year in the Dry Creek Joint Elementary School District by the Rotary Club of Roseville.

Courtesy of John SmithFrom left, Roseville Rotary President Jack Arney, Dry Creek Joint Elementary School District Superintendent Mark Geyer, Rotarian Ernie Tuttle, Coyote Ridge Elementary School District teacher Sheri Balakian and Coyote Ridge Principal Michelle Harmeier during an event honoring Balakian as the Rotary’s Teacher of the Year in the Dry Creek district.

Coyote Ridge educator named Teacher of the Year

The Rotary Club of Roseville recently honored Sheri Balakian as Teacher of the Year in the Dry Creek Joint Elementary School District. Balakian is the learning center teacher and team leader at Coyote Ridge Elementary School, and assists with other positions such as special teacher on assignment. According to the Rotary, Balakian constantly adapts her teaching instruction and schedule to accommodate the unique needs of her students. She provides students with focused, targeted instruction, along with the encouragement and emotional support students with academic challenges may need. She is described as a quiet, caring leader and innovator who does what’s best for kids.

Caltrans launches educational Facebook app

Caltrans, in partnership with Amtrak and Operation Lifesaver, has announced an interactive educational application on Facebook. “The Mysterious Adventure” encourages high school students to “Be Track Smart” near railroad tracks. Students can create an adventure for themselves and share the game with Facebook friends. The campaign aims to reduce the number of rail-related incidents and fatalities in California. About 90 unnecessary rail fatalities occur each year in California, according to California Operation Lifesaver.

“Safety is Caltrans’ top priority, and it is critical that students, particularly new drivers, grasp the significance of rail safety when approaching railroad crossings,” said Caltrans Director Malcolm Dougherty in a press release.